Fabrizio Romano: Aston Villa In Advanced Talks For West Ham Playmaker | OneFootball

Aston Villa Push Ahead in Talks for Lucas Paquetá

Fabrizio Romano has reported that “Aston Villa are now advancing in talks to sign Lucas Paquetá. Negotiations underway with West Ham while Paquetá is keen on #AVFC move.” This development has put the Midlands club firmly in the headlines, as Unai Emery’s side look to add more creativity and depth to their squad ahead of another demanding season.

Why Villa Want Paquetá

Lucas Paquetá has been one of West Ham’s standout performers since his move from Lyon, playing a pivotal role in their Europa Conference League triumph. His vision, flair, and work rate make him a unique asset in midfield, and it’s clear why Villa are making this push. As Romano states, “Paquetá is keen on #AVFC move” — a sign that the Brazilian sees Villa as a club on the rise under Emery.

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Negotiations with West Ham

While discussions between Aston Villa and West Ham are still ongoing, the talks appear to be progressing positively. West Ham, however, will be reluctant to lose one of their most influential figures. Romano has clarified that “Negotiations [are] underway with West Ham”, and this could become one of the most significant moves of the summer window.

What Paquetá Brings to Villa

If Villa succeed in landing Paquetá, they will be adding a midfielder capable of unlocking defences and providing consistent quality in possession. His ability to operate both centrally and in more advanced areas fits Emery’s flexible tactical approach. With Villa competing in Europe again this season, strengthening the squad with players of Paquetá’s calibre will be crucial to sustaining momentum domestically and abroad.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Aston Villa supporter’s perspective, this feels like the type of signing that could elevate the club to the next level. Fans know how Emery has transformed Villa Park into a fortress, and adding someone of Paquetá’s stature would only reinforce belief in the project.

Paquetá is not just a technical player; he has a tenacity that Villa fans admire. His performances for West Ham showed he could mix it in the physical Premier League, while still offering moments of Brazilian flair that can turn matches. For supporters, the idea of seeing him link up with Ollie Watkins & Morgan Rogers is mouth-watering.

At the same time, fans will be realistic. Signing a player of Paquetá’s profile will not be cheap, and West Ham are not known for letting go of key men without a fight. Many will wonder if the club can balance this deal with Financial Fair Play restrictions and still strengthen in other positions.

Still, should this move materialise, Villa fans will view it as a statement of intent. It signals that Emery and the owners are serious about building a squad capable of challenging the traditional top six and making a strong push in Europe. For Villa Park faithful, this is the kind of ambition they’ve long craved.